Care economy is an integral part of Business Environment Reforms (BER). It is central to advance Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE). This report highlights the link between women’s share of care work and their access to economic opportunities, and analyses how care policies can be promoted as part of business environment reforms. It also explores childcare policies, which covers the provision of childcare services and parental leave (including maternity and paternity leave). Case studies from ACP countries are showcased along the report as examples of innovative ways to develop childcare policies and parental leave provisions to create a more conducive business environment, as well as recommendations for policymakers to design, enact and implement care policies that improve the business environment, foster women’s economic empowerment, support the development of children and challenge harmful gender norms.
Maha Elhayek
Senior Consultant
I specialize in market systems development in fragile and conflict-affected settings. Over the past decade, I have advised programs across the MENA region, Africa, and Eastern Europe. My work spans agricultural and industrial sectors, focusing on market systems assessments, program design, and strategies that expand opportunities for marginalized groups and support gender mainstreaming. I enjoy applying systems thinking to uncover structural barriers, co-create locally grounded solutions, and advise on private sector partnerships. I am currently passionate about applying MSD approaches to address climate change challenges.